Delivery of alprazolam, estazolam, midazolam or triazolam through an inhalation route

ABSTRACT

The present invention relates to the delivery of alprazolam, estazolam, midazolam or triazolam through an inhalation route. Specifically, it relates to aerosols containing alprazolam, estazolam, midazolam or triazolam that are used in inhalation therapy. In a composition aspect of the present invention, the aerosol comprises particles comprising at least 5 percent by weight of alprazolam, estazolam, midazolam or triazolam. In a method aspect of the present invention, alprazolam, estazolam, midazolam or triazolam is delivered to a mammal through an inhalation route. The method comprises: a) heating a composition, wherein the composition comprises at least 5 percent by weight of alprazolam, estazolam, midazolam or triazolam, to form a vapor; and, b) allowing the vapor to cool, thereby forming a condensation aerosol comprising particles, which is inhaled by the mammal. In a kit aspect of the present invention, a kit for delivering alprazolam, estazolam, midazolam or triazolam through an inhalation route to a mammal is provided which comprises: a) a composition comprising at least 5 percent by weight of alprazolam, estazolam, midazolam or triazolam; and, b) a device that forms an alprazolam, estazolam, midazolam or triazolam containing aerosol from the composition, for inhalation by the mammal.

[0001] This application claims priority to U.S. provisional application Serial No. 60/294,203 entitled “Thermal Vapor Delivery of Drugs,” filed May 24, 2001, Rabinowitz and Zaffaroni, the entire disclosure of which is hereby incorporated by reference. This application further claims priority to U.S. provisional application Serial No. 60/317,479 entitled “Aerosol Drug Delivery,” filed Sep. 5, 2001, Rabinowitz and Zaffaroni, the entire disclosure of which is hereby incorporated by reference. This application further claims priority to U.S. provisional application Serial No. 60/345,876 entitled “Delivery of Alprazolam, Estazolam, Midazolam, and Triazolam Through an Inhalation Route,” filed Nov. 9, 2001, Rabinowitz and Hale, the entire disclosure of which is hereby incorporated by reference.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0002] The present invention relates to the delivery of alprazolam, estazolam, midazolam or triazolam through an inhalation route. Specifically, it relates to aerosols containing alprazolam, estazolam, midazolam or triazolam that are used in inhalation therapy.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0003] There are a number of compositions currently marketed for the treatment of anxiety or insomnia. The compositions contain at least one active ingredient that provides for observed therapeutic effects. Among the active ingredients in such compositions are alprazolam, estazolam, midazolam, and triazolam.

[0004] It is desirable to provide a new route of administration for alprazolam, estazolam, midazolam, and triazolam that rapidly produces peak plasma concentrations of the compound. The provision of such a route is an object of the present invention.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0005] The present invention relates to the delivery of alprazolam, estazolam, midazolam or triazolam through an inhalation route. Specifically, it relates to aerosols containing alprazolam, estazolam, midazolam or triazolam that are used in inhalation therapy.

[0006] In a composition aspect of the present invention, the aerosol comprises particles comprising at least 5 percent by weight of alprazolam, estazolam, midazolam or triazolam. Preferably, the particles comprise at least 10 percent by weight of alprazolam, estazolam, midazolam or triazolam. More preferably, the particles comprise at least 20 percent, 30 percent, 40 percent, 50 percent, 60 percent, 70 percent, 80 percent, 90 percent, 95 percent, 97 percent, 99 percent, 99.5 percent or 99.97 percent by weight of alprazolam, estazolam, midazolam or triazolam.

[0007] Typically, the aerosol has a mass of at least 1 μg. Preferably, the aerosol has a mass of at least 10 μg. More preferably, the aerosol has a mass of at least 20 μg.

[0008] Typically, the aerosol particles comprise less than 10 percent by weight of alprazolam, estazolam, midazolam or triazolam degradation products. Preferably, the particles comprise less than 5 percent by weight of alprazolam, estazolam, midazolam or triazolam degradation products. More preferably, the particles comprise less than 2.5, 1, 0.5, 0.1 or 0.03 percent by weight of alprazolam, estazolam, midazolam or triazolam degradation products.

[0009] Typically, the aerosol particles comprise less than 90 percent by weight of water. Preferably, the particles comprise less than 80 percent by weight of water. More preferably, the particles comprise less than 70 percent, 60 percent, 50 percent, 40 percent, 30 percent, 20 percent, 10 percent, or 5 percent by weight of water.

[0010] Typically, at least 50 percent by weight of the aerosol is amorphous in form, wherein crystalline forms make up less than 50 percent by weight of the total aerosol weight, regardless of the nature of individual particles. Preferably, at least 75 percent by weight of the aerosol is amorphous in form. More preferably, at least 90 percent by weight of the aerosol is amorphous in form.

[0011] Typically, the aerosol has an inhalable aerosol drug mass density of between 0.02 mg/L and 10 mg/L. Preferably, the aerosol has an inhalable aerosol drug mass density of between 0.05 mg/L and 5 mg/L. More preferably, the aerosol has an inhalable aerosol drug mass density of between 0.1 mg/L and 2 mg/L.

[0012] Typically, the aerosol has an inhalable aerosol particle density greater than 10⁶ particles/mL. Preferably, the aerosol has an inhalable aerosol particle density greater than 10⁷ particles/mL. More preferably, the aerosol has an inhalable aerosol particle density greater than 10⁸ particles/mL.

[0013] Typically, the aerosol particles have a mass median aerodynamic diameter of less than 5 microns. Preferably, the particles have a mass median aerodynamic diameter of less than 3 microns. More preferably, the particles have a mass median aerodynamic diameter of less than 2 or 1 micron(s).

[0014] Typically, the geometric standard deviation around the mass median aerodynamic diameter of the aerosol particles is less than 3.0. Preferably, the geometric standard deviation is less than 2.5. More preferably, the geometric standard deviation is less than 2.1.

[0015] Typically, the aerosol is formed by heating a composition containing alprazolam, estazolam, midazolam or triazolam to form a vapor and subsequently allowing the vapor to condense into an aerosol.

[0016] In a method aspect of the present invention, either alprazolam, estazolam, midazolam or triazolam is delivered to a mammal through an inhalation route. The method comprises: a) heating a composition, wherein the composition comprises at least 5 percent by weight of alprazolam, estazolam, midazolam or triazolam; and, b) allowing the vapor to cool, thereby forming a condensation aerosol comprising particles, which is inhaled by the mammal. Preferably, the composition that is heated comprises at least 10 percent by weight of alprazolam, estazolam, midazolam or triazolam. More preferably, the composition comprises 20 percent, 30 percent, 40 percent, 50 percent, 60 percent, 70 percent, 80 percent, 90 percent, 95 percent, 97 percent, 99 percent, 99.5 percent, 99.9 percent or 99.97 percent by weight of alprazolam, estazolam, midazolam or triazolam.

[0017] Typically, the delivered aerosol particles comprise at least 5 percent by weight of alprazolam, estazolam, midazolam or triazolam. Preferably, the particles comprise at least 10 percent by weight of alprazolam, estazolam, midazolam or triazolam. More preferably, the particles comprise at least 20 percent, 30 percent, 40 percent, 50 percent, 60 percent, 70 percent, 80 percent, 90 percent, 95 percent, 97 percent, 99 percent, 99.5 percent, 99.9 percent or 99.97 percent by weight of alprazolam, estazolam, midazolam or triazolam.

[0018] Typically, the aerosol has a mass of at least 1 μg. Preferably, the aerosol has a mass of at least 10 μg. More preferably, the aerosol has a mass of at least 20 μg.

[0019] Typically, the delivered aerosol particles comprise less than 10 percent by weight of alprazolam, estazolam, midazolam or triazolam degradation products. Preferably, the particles comprise less than 5 percent by weight of alprazolam, estazolam, midazolam or triazolam degradation products. More preferably, the particles comprise less than 2.5, 1, 0.5, 0.1 or 0.03 percent by weight of alprazolam, estazolam, midazolam or triazolam degradation products.

[0020] Typically, the aerosol particles comprise less than 90 percent by weight of water. Preferably, the particles comprise less than 80 percent by weight of water. More preferably, the particles comprise less than 70 percent, 60 percent, 50 percent, 40 percent, 30 percent, 20 percent, 10 percent, or 5 percent by weight of water.

[0021] Typically, at least 50 percent by weight of the aerosol is amorphous in form, wherein crystalline forms make up less than 50 percent by weight of the total aerosol weight, regardless of the nature of individual particles. Preferably, at least 75 percent by weight of the aerosol is amorphous in form. More preferably, at least 90 percent by weight of the aerosol is amorphous in form.

[0022] Typically, the particles of the delivered condensation aerosol have a mass median aerodynamic diameter of less than 5 microns. Preferably, the particles have a mass median aerodynamic diameter of less than 3 microns. More preferably, the particles have a mass median aerodynamic diameter of less than 2 or 1 micron(s).

[0023] Typically, the geometric standard deviation around the mass median aerodynamic diameter of the aerosol particles is less than 3.0. Preferably, the geometric standard deviation is less than 2.5. More preferably, the geometric standard deviation is less than 2.1.

[0024] Typically, the delivered aerosol has an inhalable aerosol drug mass density of between 0.02 mg/L and 10 mg/L. Preferably, the aerosol has an inhalable aerosol drug mass density of between 0.05 mg/L and 5 mg/L. More preferably, the aerosol has an inhalable aerosol drug mass density of between 0.1 mg/L and 2 mg/L.

[0025] Typically, the delivered aerosol has an inhalable aerosol particle density greater than 10⁶ particles/mL. Preferably, the aerosol has an inhalable aerosol particle density greater than 10⁷ particles/mL. More preferably, the aerosol has an inhalable aerosol particle density greater than 10⁸ particles/mL.

[0026] Typically, the rate of inhalable aerosol particle formation of the delivered condensation aerosol is greater than 10⁸ particles per second. Preferably, the aerosol is formed at a rate greater than 10⁹ inhalable particles per second. More preferably, the aerosol is formed at a rate greater than 10¹⁰ inhalable particles per second.

[0027] Typically, the delivered aerosol is formed at a rate greater than 0.1 mg/second. Preferably, the aerosol is formed at a rate greater than 0.25 mg/second. More preferably, the aerosol is formed at a rate greater than 0.5, 1 or 2 mg/second.

[0028] Typically, where the condensation aerosol comprises alprazolam, between 0.05 mg and 4 mg of alprazolam are delivered to the mammal in a single inspiration. Preferably, between 0.1 mg and 2 mg of alprazolam are delivered to the mammal in a single inspiration. More preferably, between 0.2 mg and 1 mg of alprazolam are delivered to the mammal in a single inspiration.

[0029] Typically, where the condensation aerosol comprises estazolam, between 0.05 mg and 4 mg of estazolam are delivered to the mammal in a single inspiration. Preferably, between 0.1 mg and 2 mg of estazolam are delivered to the mammal in a single inspiration. More preferably, between 0.2 mg and 1 mg of estazolam are delivered to the mammal in a single inspiration.

[0030] Typically, where the condensation aerosol comprises midazolam, between 0.05 mg and 4 mg of midazolam are delivered to the mammal in a single inspiration. Preferably, between 0.1 mg and 2 mg of midazolam are delivered to the mammal in a single inspiration. More preferably, between 0.2 mg and 1 mg of midazolam are delivered in a single inspiration.

[0031] Typically, where the condensation aerosol comprises triazolam, between 0.006 mg and 0.5 mg of triazolam are delivered to the mammal in a single inspiration. Preferably, between 0.0125 mg and 0.25 mg of triazolam are delivered to the mammal in a single inspiration. More preferably, between 0.025 mg and 0.125 mg of triazolam are delivered to the mammal in a single inspiration.

[0032] Typically, the delivered condensation aerosol results in a peak plasma concentration of alprazolam, estazolam, midazolam or triazolam in the mammal in less than 1 h. Preferably, the peak plasma concentration is reached in less than 0.5 h. More preferably, the peak plasma concentration is reached in less than 0.2, 0.1, 0.05, 0.02, 0.01, or 0.005 h (arterial measurement).

[0033] In a kit aspect of the present invention, a kit for delivering alprazolam, estazolam, midazolam or triazolam through an inhalation route to a mammal is provided which comprises: a) a composition comprising at least 5 percent by weight of alprazolam, estazolam, midazolam or triazolam; and, b) a device that forms an alprazolam, estazolam, midazolam or triazolam containing aerosol from the composition, for inhalation by the mammal. Preferably, the composition comprises at least 10 percent by weight of alprazolam, estazolam, midazolam or triazolam. More preferably, the composition comprises at least 20 percent, 30 percent, 40 percent, 50 percent, 60 percent, 70 percent, 80 percent, 90 percent, 95 percent, 97 percent, 99 percent, 99.5 percent, 99.9 percent or 99.97 percent by weight of alprazolam, estazolam, midazolam or triazolam.

[0034] Typically, the device contained in the kit comprises: a) an element for heating the alprazolam, estazolam, midazolam or triazolam composition to form a vapor; b) an element allowing the vapor to cool to form an aerosol; and, c) an element permitting the mammal to inhale the aerosol.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURE

[0035]FIG. 1 shows a device used to deliver alprazolam, estazolam, midazolam or triazolam containing aerosols to a mammal through an inhalation route.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION Definitions

[0036] “Aerodynamic diameter” of a given particle refers to the diameter of a spherical droplet with a density of 1 g/mL (the density of water) that has the same settling velocity as the given particle.

[0037] “Aerosol” refers to a suspension of solid or liquid particles in a gas.

[0038] “Aerosol drug mass density” refers to the mass of alprazolam, estazolam, midazolam or triazolam per unit volume of aerosol.

[0039] “Aerosol mass density” refers to the mass of particulate matter per unit volume of aerosol.

[0040] “Aerosol particle density” refers to the number of particles per unit volume of aerosol.

[0041] “Alprazolam” refers to 8-chloro-1-methyl-6-phenyl-4H-s-triazolo-[4,3-α] [1,4]benzodiazepine, which has an empirical formula of C₁₇H₁₃ClN₄.

[0042] “Alprazolam degradation product” refers to a compound resulting from a chemical modification of alprazolam. The modification, for example, can be the result of a thermally or photochemically induced reaction. Such reactions include, without limitation, oxidation (e.g., of the methyl or methylene unit) and hydrolysis (e.g., of the imine portion).

[0043] “Amorphous particle” refers to a particle that does not contain more than 50 percent by weight of a crystalline form. Preferably, the particle does not contain more than 25 percent by weight of a crystalline form. More preferably, the particle does not contain more than 10 percent by weight of a crystalline form.

[0044] “Condensation aerosol” refers to an aerosol formed by vaporization of a substance followed by condensation of the substance into an aerosol.

[0045] “Estazolam” refers to 8-chloro-6-phenyl-4H-s-triazolo[4,3-α] [1,4]benzodiazepine, which has an empirical formula of C₁₆H₁₁ClN₄.

[0046] “Estazolam degradation product” refers to a compound resulting from a chemical modification of estazolam. The modification, for example, can be the result of a thermally or photochemically induced reaction. Such reactions include, without limitation, oxidation (e.g., of the methylene unit) and hydrolysis (e.g., of the imine portion).

[0047] “Inhalable aerosol drug mass density” refers to the aerosol drug mass density produced by an inhalation device and delivered into a typical patient tidal volume.

[0048] “Inhalable aerosol mass density” refers to the aerosol mass density produced by an inhalation device and delivered into a typical patient tidal volume.

[0049] “Inhalable aerosol particle density” refers to the aerosol particle density of particles of size between 100 nm and 5 microns produced by an inhalation device and delivered into a typical patient tidal volume.

[0050] “Mass median aerodynamic diameter” or “MMAD” of an aerosol refers to the aerodynamic diameter for which half the particulate mass of the aerosol is contributed by particles with an aerodynamic diameter larger than the MMAD and half by particles with an aerodynamic diameter smaller than the MMAD.

[0051] “Midazolam” refers to 8-chloro-6-(2-fluorophenyl)- 1-methyl-4H-imidazo[1,5-α][1,4]benzodiazepine, which has an empirical formula of C₁₈H₁₃ClFN₃.

[0052] “Midazolam degradation product” refers to a compound resulting from a chemical modification of midazolam. The modification, for example, can be the result of a thermally or photochemically induced reaction. Such reactions include, without limitation, oxidation (e.g., of the methyl or methylene unit) and hydrolysis (e.g., of the imine portion).

[0053] “Rate of aerosol formation” refers to the mass of aerosolized particulate matter produced by an inhalation device per unit time.

[0054] “Rate of inhalable aerosol particle formation” refers to the number of particles of size between 100 nm and 5 microns produced by an inhalation device per unit time.

[0055] “Rate of drug aerosol formation” refers to the mass of aerosolized alprazolam, estazolam, midazolam or triazolam produced by an inhalation device per unit time.

[0056] “Settling velocity” refers to the terminal velocity of an aerosol particle undergoing gravitational settling in air.

[0057] “Triazolam” refers to 8-chloro-6-(-o-chlorophenyl)-1-methyl-4H-s-triazolo-[4,3-α] [1,4]benzodiazepine, which has an empirical formula of C₁₇H₁₂Cl₂N₄.

[0058] “Triazolam degradation product” refers to a compound resulting from a chemical modification of triazolam. The modification, for example, can be the result of a thermally or photochemically induced reaction. Such reactions include, without limitation, oxidation (e.g., of the methyl or methylene unit) and hydrolysis (e.g., of the imine portion).

[0059] “Typical patient tidal volume” refers to 1 L for an adult patient and 15 mL/kg for a pediatric patient.

[0060] “Vapor” refers to a gas, and “vapor phase” refers to a gas phase. The term “thermal vapor” refers to a vapor phase, aerosol, or mixture of aerosol-vapor phases, formed preferably by heating.

Formation of Alprazolam, Estazolam, Midazolam or Triazolam Containing Aerosols

[0061] Any suitable method is used to form the aerosols of the present invention. A preferred method, however, involves heating a composition comprising alprazolam, estazolam, midazolam or triazolam to produce a vapor, followed by cooling of the vapor such that it condenses to provide an alprazolam, estazolam, midazolam or triazolam comprising aerosol (condensation aerosol). The composition is heated in one of two forms: as pure active compound (i.e., pure alprazolam, estazolam, midazolam or triazolam); or, as a mixture of active compound and a pharmaceutically acceptable excipient. Typically, the composition is heated on a solid support.

[0062] Pharmaceutically acceptable excipients are either volatile or nonvolatile. Volatile excipients, when heated, are concurrently volatilized, aerosolized and inhaled with alprazolam, estazolam, midazolam or triazolam. Classes of such excipients are known in the art and include, without limitation, gaseous, supercritical fluid, liquid and solid solvents. The following is a list of exemplary carriers within the classes: water; terpenes, such as menthol; alcohols, such as ethanol, propylene glycol, glycerol and other similar alcohols; dimethylformamide; dimethylacetamide; wax; supercritical carbon dioxide; dry ice; and mixtures thereof.

[0063] Solid supports on which the composition is heated are of a variety of shapes. Examples of such shapes include, without limitation, cylinders of less than 1.0 mm in diameter, boxes of less than 1.0 mm thickness and virtually any shape permeated by small (e.g., less than 1.0 mm-sized) pores. Preferably, solid supports provide a large surface to volume ratio (e.g., greater than 100 per meter) and a large surface to mass ratio (e.g., greater than 1 cm² per gram).

[0064] A solid support of one shape can also be transformed into another shape with different properties. For example, a box of 0.25 mm thickness has a surface to volume ratio of approximately 8,000 per meter. Rolling the box into a hollow cylinder of 1 cm diameter produces a support that retains the high surface to mass ratio of the original box but has a lower surface to volume ratio (about 400 per meter).

[0065] A number of different materials are used to construct the solid supports. Classes of such materials include, without limitation, metals, inorganic materials, carbonaceous materials and polymers. The following are examples of the material classes: aluminum, silver, gold, stainless steel, copper and tungsten; silica, glass, silicon and alumina; graphite, porous carbons, carbon yarns and carbon felts; polytetrafluoroethylene and polyethylene glycol. Combinations of materials and coated variants of materials are used as well.

[0066] Where aluminum is used as a solid support, aluminum foil is a suitable material. Examples of silica, alumina and silicon based materials include amphorous silica S-5631 (Sigma, St. Louis, Mo.), BCR171 (an alumina of defined surface area greater than 2 m²/g from Aldrich, St. Louis, Mo.) and a silicon wafer as used in the semiconductor industry. Carbon yams and felts are available from American Kynol, Inc., New York, N.Y.. Chromatography resins such as octadecycl silane chemically bonded to porous silica are exemplary coated variants of silica.

[0067] The heating of the alprazolam, estazolam, midazolam or triazolam compositions is performed using any suitable method. Examples of methods by which heat can be generated include the following: passage of current through an electrical resistance element; absorption of electromagnetic radiation, such as microwave or laser light; and, exothermic chemical reactions, such as exothermic solvation, hydration of pyrophoric materials and oxidation of combustible materials.

Delivery of Alprazolam, Estazolam, Midazolam or Triazolam Containing Aerosols

[0068] Alprazolam, estazolam, midazolam and triazolam containing aerosols of the present invention are delivered to a mammal using an inhalation device. Where the aerosol is a condensation aerosol, the device has at least three elements: an element for heating an alprazolam, estazolam, midazolam or triazolam containing composition to form a vapor; an element allowing the vapor to cool, thereby providing a condensation aerosol; and, an element permitting the mammal to inhale the aerosol. Various suitable heating methods are described above. The element that allows cooling is, in it simplest form, an inert passageway linking the heating means to the inhalation means. The element permitting inhalation is an aerosol exit portal that forms a connection between the cooling element and the mammal's respiratory system.

[0069] One device used to deliver alprazolam, estazolam, midazolam or triazolam containing aerosol is described in reference to FIG. 1. Delivery device 100 has a proximal end 102 and a distal end 104, a heating module 106, a power source 108, and a mouthpiece 110. An alprazolam, estazolam, midazolam or triazolam composition is deposited on a surface 112 of heating module 106. Upon activation of a user activated switch 114, power source 108 initiates heating of heating module 106 (e.g, through ignition of combustible fuel or passage of current through a resistive heating element). The alprazolam, estazolam, midazolam or triazolam composition volatilizes due to the heating of heating module 106 and condenses to form a condensation aerosol prior to reaching the mouthpiece 110 at the proximal end of the device 102. Air flow traveling from the device distal end 104 to the mouthpiece 110 carries the condensation aerosol to the mouthpiece 110, where it is inhaled by the mammal.

[0070] Devices, if desired, contain a variety of components to facilitate the delivery of alprazolam, estazolam, midazolam or triazolam containing aerosols. For instance, the device may include any component known in the art to control the timing of drug aerosolization relative to inhalation (e.g., breath-actuation), to provide feedback to patients on the rate and/or volume of inhalation, to prevent excessive use (i.e., “lock-out” feature), to prevent use by unauthorized individuals, and/or to record dosing histories.

Dosage of Alprazolam, Estazolam, Midazolam or Triazolam Containing Aerosols

[0071] For the short-term management of insomnia, estazolam is given orally at strengths of 1 mg or 2 mg (PROSOM™ Tablets). Alprazolam is used for the treatment of anxiety disorders and is provided for oral administration at strengths of 0.25 mg, 0.5 mg, 1 mg or 2 mg (XANAX® Tablets). Midazolam is given (injection or syrup) either as an anesthetic or anxiolytic in a typical dose of 0.5 mg to 4 mg (VERSED®). Triazolam is used to treat insomnia as an oral formulation in strengths of 0.125 mg and 0.25 mg (HALCION® Tablets).

[0072] As aerosols, 0.05 mg to 4 mg of estazolam, 0.05 mg to 4 mg alprazolam, 0.05 mg to 4 mg midazolam and 0.006 mg to 0.5 mg triazolam are generally provided per inspiration for the same indications. A typical dosage of an alprazolam, estazolam, midazolam or triazolam aerosol is either administered as a single inhalation or as a series of inhalations taken within an hour or less (dosage equals sum of inhaled amounts). Where the drug is administered as a series of inhalations, a different amount may be delivered in each inhalation. The dosage amount of alprazolam, estazolam, midazolam or triazolam in aerosol form is generally no greater than twice the standard dose of the drug given orally or by injection.

[0073] One can determine the appropriate dose of alprazolam, estazolam, midazolam or triazolam containing aerosols to treat a particular condition using methods such as animal experiments and a dose-finding (Phase I/II) clinical trial. One animal experiment involves measuring plasma concentrations of an animal after its exposure to the aerosol. Mammals such as dogs or primates are typically used in such studies, since their respiratory systems are similar to that of a human. Initial dose levels for testing in humans are generally less than or equal to the dose in the mammal model that resulted in plasma drug levels associated with a therapeutic effect in humans. Dose escalation in humans is then performed, until either an optimal therapeutic response is obtained or a dose-limiting toxicity is encountered.

Analysis of Alprozolam, Estazolam, Midazolam or Triazolam Containing Aerosols

[0074] Purity of an alprazolam, estazolam, midazolam or triazolam containing aerosol is determined using a number of methods, examples of which are described in Sekine et al., Journal of Forensic Science 32:1271-1280 (1987) and Martin et al., Journal of Analytic Toxicology 13:158-162 (1989). One method involves forming the aerosol in a device through which a gas flow (e.g., air flow) is maintained, generally at a rate between 0.4 and 60 L/min. The gas flow carries the aerosol into one or more traps. After isolation from the trap, the aerosol is subjected to an analytical technique, such as gas or liquid chromatography, that permits a determination of composition purity.

[0075] A variety of different traps are used for aerosol collection. The following list contains examples of such traps: filters; glass wool; impingers; solvent traps, such as dry ice-cooled ethanol, methanol, acetone and dichloromethane traps at various pH values; syringes that sample the aerosol; empty, low-pressure (e.g., vacuum) containers into which the aerosol is drawn; and, empty containers that fully surround and enclose the aerosol generating device. Where a solid such as glass wool is used, it is typically extracted with a solvent such as ethanol. The solvent extract is subjected to analysis rather than the solid (i.e., glass wool) itself. Where a syringe or container is used, the container is similarly extracted with a solvent.

[0076] The gas or liquid chromatograph discussed above contains a detection system (i.e., detector). Such detection systems are well known in the art and include, for example, flame ionization, photon absorption and mass spectrometry detectors. An advantage of a mass spectrometry detector is that it can be used to determine the structure of alprazolam, estazolam, midazolam or triazolam degradation products.

[0077] Particle size distribution of an alprazolam, estazolam, midazolam or triazolam containing aerosol is determined using any suitable method in the art (e.g., cascade impaction). An Andersen Eight Stage Non-viable Cascade Impactor (Andersen Instruments, Smyrna, Ga.) linked to a furnace tube by a mock throat (USP throat, Andersen Instruments, Smyrna, Ga.) is one system used for cascade impaction studies.

[0078] Inhalable aerosol mass density is determined, for example, by delivering a drug-containing aerosol into a confined chamber via an inhalation device and measuring the mass collected in the chamber. Typically, the aerosol is drawn into the chamber by having a pressure gradient between the device and the chamber, wherein the chamber is at lower pressure than the device. The volume of the chamber should approximate the tidal volume of an inhaling patient.

[0079] Inhalable aerosol drug mass density is determined, for example, by delivering a drug-containing aerosol into a confined chamber via an inhalation device and measuring the amount of active drug compound collected in the chamber. Typically, the aerosol is drawn into the chamber by having a pressure gradient between the device and the chamber, wherein the chamber is at lower pressure than the device. The volume of the chamber should approximate the tidal volume of an inhaling patient. The amount of active drug compound collected in the chamber is determined by extracting the chamber, conducting chromatographic analysis of the extract and comparing the results of the chromatographic analysis to those of a standard containing known amounts of drug.

[0080] Inhalable aerosol particle density is determined, for example, by delivering aerosol phase drug into a confined chamber via an inhalation device and measuring the number of particles of given size collected in the chamber. The number of particles of a given size may be directly measured based on the light-scattering properties of the particles. Alternatively, the number of particles of a given size may be determined by measuring the mass of particles within the given size range and calculating the number of particles based on the mass as follows: Total number of particles−Sum (from size range 1 to size range N) of number of particles in each size range. Number of particles in a given size range=Mass in the size range/Mass of a typical particle in the size range. Mass of a typical particle in a given size range=π*D^(3*φ/6,) where D is a typical particle diameter in the size range (generally, the mean boundary of the MMADs defining the size range) in microns, φ is the particle density (in g/mL) and mass is given in units of picograms (g⁻¹²).

[0081] Rate of inhalable aerosol particle formation is determined, for example, by delivering aerosol phase drug into a confined chamber via an inhalation device. The delivery is for a set period of time (e.g., 3 s), and the number of particles of a given size collected in the chamber is determined as outlined above. The rate of particle formation is equal to the number of 100 nm to 5 micron particles collected divided by the duration of the collection time.

[0082] Rate of aerosol formation is determined, for example, by delivering aerosol phase drug into a confined chamber via an inhalation device. The delivery is for a set period of time (e.g., 3 s), and the mass of particulate matter-collected is determined by weighing the confined chamber before and after the delivery of the particulate matter. The rate of aerosol formation is equal to the increase in mass in the chamber divided by the duration of the collection time. Alternatively, where a change in mass of the delivery device or component thereof can only occur through release of the aerosol phase particulate matter, the mass of particulate matter may be equated with the mass lost from the device or component during the delivery of the aerosol. In this case, the rate of aerosol formation is equal to the decrease in mass of the device or component during the delivery event divided by the duration of the delivery event.

[0083] Rate of drug aerosol formation is determined, for example, by delivering an alprazolam, estazolam, midazolam or triazolam containing aerosol into a confined chamber via an inhalation device over a set period of time (e.g., 3 s). Where the aerosol is pure alprazolam, estazolam, midazolam or triazolam, the amount of drug collected in the chamber is measured as described above. The rate of drug aerosol formation is equal to the amount of alprazolam, estazolam, midazolam or triazolam collected in the chamber divided by the duration of the collection time. Where the alprazolam, estazolam, midazolam or triazolam containing aerosol comprises a pharmaceutically acceptable excipient, multiplying the rate of aerosol formation by the percentage of alprazolam, estazolam, midazolam or triazolam in the aerosol provides the rate of drug aerosol formation.

Utility of Alprazolam, Estazolam, Midazolam and Triazolam Containing Aerosols

[0084] Typical uses for alprazolam, estazolam, midazolam, and triazolam-containing aerosols include without limitation the following: relief of the symptoms of situational anxiety, relief of acute panic attacks, relaxation of skeletal muscle, treatment of nausea and vomiting, induction of sleep, and sedation for medical or dental procedures. Alprazolam and estazolam containing-aerosols are distinguished from midazolam and triazolam-containing aerosols primarily by their durations of action, with alprazolam and estazolam having half-lives of approximately 12 hours and midazolam and triazolam having half-lives of approximately 3 hours. Thus triazolam or midazolam-containing aerosols are typically used in instances where a rapid offset of action is desired (e.g. in sedation for medical or dental procedures). In contrast, alprazolam or estazolam-containing aerosols are typically used in instances where a sustained action is desired (e.g. in the case of a panic attack, where a rapid offset of action might predispose to another episode of panic).

[0085] The following examples are meant to illustrate, rather than limit, the present invention.

[0086] Alprazolam, estazolam and triazolam were purchased from Sigma (www.sigma-aldrich.com). Midazolam was obtained from Gyma Laboratories of America, Inc. (Westbury, N.Y.).

EXAMPLE 1 Volatilization of Alprazolam

[0087] A solution of 2.6 mg alprazolam in 120 μL dichloromethane was coated on a 3.6 cm×8 cm piece of aluminum foil. The dichloromethane was allowed to evaporate. The coated foil was wrapped around a 300 watt halogen tube (Feit Electric Company, Pico Rivera, Calif.), which was inserted into a glass tube sealed at one end with a rubber stopper. Running 75 V of alternating current (driven by line power controlled by a variac) through the bulb for 6 s afforded alprazolam thermal vapor (including alprazolam aerosol), which collected on the glass tube walls. Reverse-phase HPLC analysis with detection by absorption of 225 nm light showed the collected material to be at least 99.9% pure alprazolam. To obtain higher purity aerosols, one can coat a lesser amount of drug, yielding a thinner film to heat. A linear decrease in film thickness is associated with a linear decrease in impurities.

EXAMPLE 2 Volatilization of Estazolam

[0088] A solution of 2.0 mg estazolam in 120 μL dichloromethane was coated on a 3.6 cm×8 cm piece of aluminum foil. The dichloromethane was allowed to evaporate. The coated foil was wrapped around a 300 watt halogen tube (Feit Electric Company, Pico Rivera, Calif.), which was inserted into a glass tube sealed at one end with a rubber stopper. Running 60 V of alternating current (driven by line power controlled by a variac) through the bulb for 3 s, followed by 45 V for 11s, afforded estazolam thermal vapor (including estazolam aerosol), which collected on the glass tube walls. Reverse-phase HPLC analysis with detection by absorption of 225 nm light showed the collected material to be at least 99.9% pure estazolam.

EXAMPLE 3 Volatilization of Midazolam

[0089] A solution of 5.0 mg midazolam in 120 μL dichloromethane was coated on a 3.6 cm×8 cm piece of aluminum foil. The dichloromethane was allowed to evaporate. The coated foil was wrapped around a 300 watt halogen tube (Feit Electric Company, Pico Rivera, Calif.), which was inserted into a glass tube sealed at one end with a rubber stopper. Running 60V of alternating current (driven by line power controlled by a variac) through the bulb for 6 s afforded midazolam thermal vapor (including midazolam aerosol), which collected on the glass tube walls. Reverse-phase HPLC analysis with detection by absorption of 225 nm light showed the collected material to be at least 99.9% pure midazolam.

EXAMPLE 4 Particle Size, Particle Density, and Rate of Inhalable Particle Formation of Midazolam Aerosol

[0090] A solution of 17.1 mg midazolam in 200 μL dichloromethane was spread out in a thin layer on the central portion of a 4 cm×9 cm sheet of aluminum foil. The dichloromethane was allowed to evaporate. The aluminum foil was wrapped around a 300 watt halogen tube, which was inserted into a T-shaped glass tube. One of the openings of the tube was sealed with a rubber stopper, another was loosely covered with the end of the halogen tube, and the third was connected to a 1 liter, 3-neck glass flask. The glass flask was further connected to a large piston capable of drawing 1.1 liters of air through the flask. Alternating current was run through the halogen bulb by application of 90 V using a variac connected to 110 V line power. Within 1 s, an aerosol appeared and was drawn into the 1 L flask by use of the piston, with collection of the aerosol terminated after 6 s. The aerosol was analyzed by connecting the 1 L flask to an eight-stage Andersen non-viable cascade impactor. Results are shown in table 1. MMAD of the collected aerosol was 2.8 microns with a geometric standard deviation of 1.9. Also shown in table 1 is the number of particles collected on the various stages of the cascade impactor, given by the mass collected on the stage divided by the mass of a typical particle trapped on that stage. The mass of a single particle of diameter D is given by the volume of the particle, πD³/6, multiplied by the density of the drug (taken to be 1 g/cm³). The inhalable aerosol particle density is the sum of the numbers of particles collected on impactor stages 3 to 8 divided by the collection volume of 1 L, giving an inhalable aerosol particle density of 5.5×10⁷ particles/mL. The rate of inhalable aerosol particle formation is the sum of the numbers of particles collected on impactor stages 3 through 8 divided by the formation time of 6 s, giving a rate of inhalable aerosol particle formation of 9.1×10⁹ particles/second. TABLE 1 Determination of the characteristics of a midazolam condensation aerosol by cascade impaction using an Andersen 8-stage non-viable cascade impactor run at 1 cubic foot per minute air flow. Particle size Average particle Mass Number of Stage range (microns) size (microns) collected (mg) particles 0 9.0-10.0 9.5 0.1 2.2 × 10⁵ 1 5.8-9.0 7.4 0.6 2.8 × 10⁶ 2 4.7-5.8 5.25 0.7 9.2 × 10⁶ 3 3.3-4.7 4.0 1.1 3.3 × 10⁷ 4 2.1-3.3 2.7 1.1 1.1 × 10⁸ 5 1.1-2.1 1.6 1.1 5.1 × 10⁸ 6 0.7-1.1 0.9 0.7 1.8 × 10⁹ 7 0.4-0.7 0.55 0.3 4.6 × 10⁹ 8   0-0.4 0.2 0.2 4.8 × 10¹⁰

EXAMPLE 5 Drug Mass Density and Rate of Drug Aerosol Formation of Midazolam Aerosol

[0091] A solution of 16.7 mg midazolam in 200 μL dichloromethane was spread out in a thin layer on the central portion of a 4 cm×9 cm sheet of aluminum foil. The dichloromethane was allowed to evaporate. The aluminum foil was wrapped around a 300 watt halogen tube, which was inserted into a T-shaped glass tube. One of the openings of the tube was sealed with a rubber stopper, another was loosely covered with the end of the halogen tube, and the third was connected to a 1 liter, 3-neck glass flask. The glass flask was further connected to a large piston capable of drawing 1.1 liters of air through the flask. Alternating current was run through the halogen bulb by application of 90 V using a variac connected to 110 V line power. Within seconds, an aerosol appeared and was drawn into the 1 L flask by use of the piston, with formation of the aerosol terminated after 6 s. The aerosol was allowed to sediment onto the walls of the 1 L flask for approximately 30 minutes. The flask was then extracted with dichloromethane and the extract analyzed by HPLC with detection by light absorption at 225 nm. Comparison with standards containing known amounts of midazolam revealed that 8.12 mg of >99% pure midazolam had been collected in the flask, resulting in an aerosol drug mass density of 8.12 mg/L. The aluminum foil upon which the midazolam had previously been coated was weighed following the experiment. Of the 16.7 mg originally coated on the aluminum, all of the material was found to have aerosolized in the 6 s time period, implying a rate of drug aerosol formation of 2.7 mg/s.

EXAMPLE 6 Volatilization of Triazolam

[0092] A solution of 2.0 mg triazolam in 120 μL dichloromethane was coated on a 3.6 cm×8 cm piece of aluminum foil. The dichloromethane was allowed to evaporate. The coated foil was wrapped around a 300 watt halogen tube (Feit Electric Company, Pico Rivera, Calif.), which was inserted into a glass tube sealed at one end with a rubber stopper. Running 75 V of alternating current (driven by line power controlled by a variac) through the bulb for 2 s, followed by 45 V for 8 s, afforded triazolam thermal vapor (including triazolam aerosol), which collected on the glass tube walls. Reverse-phase HPLC analysis with detection by absorption of 225 nm light showed the collected material to be at least 99.85% pure triazolam.

EXAMPLE 7 Particle Size, Particle Density, and Rate of Inhalable Particle Formation of Triazolam Aerosol

[0093] A solution of 16.4 mg triazolam in 200 μL dichloromethane was spread out in a thin layer on the central portion of a 4 cm×9 cm sheet of aluminum foil. The dichloromethane was allowed to evaporate. The aluminum foil was wrapped around a 300 watt halogen tube, which was inserted into a T-shaped glass tube. One of the openings of the tube was sealed with a rubber stopper, another was loosely covered with the end of the halogen tube, and the third was connected to a 1 liter, 3-neck glass flask. The glass flask was further connected to a large piston capable of drawing 1.1 liters of air through the flask. Alternating current was run through the halogen bulb by application of 90 V using a variac connected to 110 V line power. Within 1 s, an aerosol appeared and was drawn into the 1 L flask by use of the piston, with collection of the aerosol terminated after 6 s. The aerosol was analyzed by connecting the 1 L flask to an eight-stage Andersen non-viable cascade impactor. Results are shown in table 1. MMAD of the collected aerosol was 2.2 microns with a geometric standard deviation of 2. Also shown in table 1 is the number of particles collected on the various stages of the cascade impactor, given by the mass collected on the stage divided by the mass of a typical particle trapped on that stage. The mass of a single particle of diameter D is given by the volume of the particle, πD³/6, multiplied by the density of the drug (taken to be 1 g/cm³). The inhalable aerosol particle density is the sum of the numbers of particles collected on impactor stages 3 to 8 divided by the collection volume of 1 L, giving an inhalable aerosol particle density of 3.8×10⁶ particles/mL. The rate of inhalable aerosol particle formation is the sum of the numbers of particles collected on impactor stages 3 through 8 divided by the formation time of 6 s, giving a rate of inhalable aerosol particle formation of 6×10⁸ particles/second. TABLE 1 Determination of the characteristics of a triazolam condensation aerosol by cascade impaction using an Andersen 8-stage non-viable cascade impactor run at 1 cubic foot per minute air flow. Particle size Average particle Mass Number of Stage range (microns) size (microns) collected (mg) particles 0 9.0-10.0 9.5 0.0 0 1 5.8-9.0 7.4 0.3 1.4 × 10⁶ 2 4.7-5.8 5.25 0.3 4.0 × 10⁶ 3 3.3-4.7 4.0 0.7 2.1 × 10⁷ 4 2.1-3.3 2.7 1.2 1.2 × 10⁸ 5 1.1-2.1 1.6 1.5 7.0 × 10⁸ 6 0.7-1.1 0.9 0.7 1.8 × 10⁹ 7 0.4-0.7 0.55 0.1 1.2 × 10⁹ 8   0-0.4 0.2 0.0 0

EXAMPLE 8 Drug Mass Density and Rate of Drug Aerosol Formation of Triazolam Aerosol

[0094] A solution of 0.6 mg triazolam in 200 μL dichloromethane was spread out in a thin layer on the central portion of a 4 cm×9 cm sheet of aluminum foil. The dichloromethane was allowed to evaporate. The aluminum foil was wrapped around a 300 watt halogen tube, which was inserted into a T-shaped glass tube. One of the openings of the tube was sealed with a rubber stopper, another was loosely covered with the end of the halogen tube, and the third was connected to a 1 liter, 3-neck glass flask. The glass flask was further connected to a large piston capable of drawing 1.1 liters of air through the flask. Glass wool was placed in the tube connecting the flask to the piston._Alternating current was run through the halogen bulb by application of 90 V using a variac connected to 110 V line power. Within seconds, an aerosol appeared and was drawn into the 1 L flask by use of the piston, with formation of the aerosol terminated after 6 s. The aerosol was allowed to sediment onto the walls of the 1 L flask for approximately 30 minutes. The flask and glass wool were then extracted with dichloromethane and the extract analyzed by HPLC with detection by light absorption at 225 nm. Comparison with standards containing known amounts of triazolam revealed that 0.17 mg of >99% pure triazolam had been collected in the flask, resulting in an aerosol drug mass density of 0.17 mg/L. The aluminum foil upon which the triazolam had previously been coated was weighed following the experiment. Of the 0.6 mg originally coated on the aluminum, all of the material was found to have aerosolized in the 6 s time period, implying a rate of drug aerosol formation of 0.1 mg/s.

EXAMPLE 9 Delivery of Triazolam to a Dog

[0095] Apnea was induced in a dog, which was subsequently exposed to a 15 SLPM flow of air containing 140 μg of triazolam (condensation aerosol formed by volatilizing triazolam off of a heated, metal substrate; MMAD ˜1.1) through an endotracheal tube. This corresponded to approximately a 625 cc volume of inhalation air delivered to the dog. Once the dog had received the triazolam aerosol, an air supply valve was shut off for 5 s, which simulated a 5 s breath hold. Following the hold, the dog was allowed to exhale through an exhalation filter. Arterial blood samples were taken at the following intervals: 0 min, 0.25 min, 0.5 min, 1 min, 1.5 min, 2 min, 10 min, and 30 min. HPLC analysis of the blood samples indicated that the Tmax for triazolam was about 0.25 minutes, with a concentration of greater than 100 ng/mL reached. 

1. An aerosol for inhalation therapy, wherein the aerosol comprises particles comprising at least 10 percent by weight of alprazolam, estazolam, midazolam or triazolam.
 2. The aerosol according to claim 1, wherein the aerosol particles have a mass median aerodynamic diameter of less than 3 microns.
 3. The aerosol according to claim 1, wherein the particles comprise less than 5 percent by weight of alprazolam, estazolam, midazolam or triazolam degradation products.
 4. The aerosol according to claim 3, wherein the aerosol comprises particles comprising at least 90 percent by weight of alprazolam, estazolam, midazolam or triazolam.
 5. The aerosol according to claim 4, wherein the aerosol comprises particles comprising at least 95 percent by weight of alprazolam, estazolam, midazolam or triazolam.
 6. A method of delivering alprazolam, estazolam, midazolam or triazolam to a mammal through an inhalation route, wherein the route comprises: a) heating a composition, wherein the composition comprises at least 5 percent by weight of alprazolam, estazolam, midazolam or triazolam, to form a vapor; and, b) allowing the vapor to cool, thereby forming a condensation aerosol comprising particles, which is inhaled by the mammal.
 7. The method according to claim 6, wherein the particles comprise at least 10 percent by weight of alprazolam, estazolam, midazolam or triazolam.
 8. The method according to claim 6, wherein the aerosol particles have a mass median aerodynamic diameter of less than 3 microns.
 9. The method according to claim 6, wherein the particles comprise less than 5 percent by weight of alprazolam, estazolam, midazolam or triazolam degradation products.
 10. The method according to claim 9, wherein the aerosol comprises particles comprising at least 90 percent by weight of alprazolam, estazolam, midazolam or triazolam.
 11. The method according to claim 10, wherein the aerosol comprises particles comprising at least 95 percent by weight of alprazolam, estazolam, midazolam or triazolam.
 12. A kit for delivering alprazolam, estazolam, midazolam or triazolam through an inhalation route to a mammal, wherein the kit comprises: a) a composition comprising at least 5 percent by weight of alprazolam, estazolam, midazolam or triazolam; and, b) a device that forms a alprazolam, estazolam, midazolam or triazolam aerosol from the composition, for inhalation by the mammal  and wherein the device comprises: a) an element for heating the alprazolam, estazolam, midazolam or triazolam composition to form a vapor; b) an element allowing the vapor to cool to form an aerosol; and, c) an element permitting the mammal to inhale the aerosol. 